Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Psychodynamic psychotherapy helps clients understand how past experiences and the unconscious mind shape current feelings and behaviour. When painful feelings and memories are too overwhelming for the conscious mind to process, defences are employed to keep them repressed so that the individual is able to cope. However, this can, over time, begin to negatively impact mental and physical health. As a Psychodynamic therapist, I will help you uncover, recognise, and understand your deep-rooted feelings and how past experiences continue to impact your present life.
Based on 'Introduction to Psychotherapy: An Outline of Psychodynamic Principles and Practice' by Bateman et al. (2000) are:
- bringing the unconscious into consciousness
- exploring the impact of early life and childhood
- considering the conflict between different feelings and aspects of self
- uncovering 'defence mechanisms' which are used to avoid painful feelings and experiences
- exploring feelings and patterns in relationships with others
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is an evidence-based therapy, and the effects have been shown to continue long after the treatment has ended.
Practicalities
If you are interested in working together, we would begin with a brief telephone consultation. If, after this conversation, you decide to proceed, we would schedule an initial session, either online or in person. This session also serves as an opportunity for us both to assess whether continuing to work together on a regular basis would be a good fit.
I generally meet with clients on a weekly basis, preferably at the same time each week. My practice is oriented toward long-term work, allowing time to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship. This also ensures that the pace of the work aligns with and respects the capacity of your nervous system.